OK first hi and :welcome: to ODK.
You'll find it quite cool and educational here.
Second here I'll put your picture up here:
[Linked Image]
Yes it is a Victa Pro I have one just like it.Although I think yours is in better condition than mine.
To tell you the truth I've never actually looked at testing coils with a multi-meter.I guess I've never been taught how to or what I'm looking at.Maybe somebody will show me how one day.I'd like that.
So I'll tell you how I do it (Not the most actuate I know),but it still lets me know.
Pull the spark plug out and attach the lead and pull the starter and just watch what colour the spark is.If it's a yellow colour then there is a weaker spark.If it's a nice blue colour then there shouldn't be a problem at all.
As far as changing to electronic ignition I think that comes down to personal choice.I think it was about 12 months ago there was someone else tossing up about this idea.I think for memory he changed his mind,but he was looking at some aftermarket brand new set up and it wasn't worth the cost.I guess if you got a setup of another mower you could.I just think it would be a lot of mucking around for little improvement,but that's just me.
With the decompressor it should be the serviceable type unless it's been changed.It wouldn't hurt to have a look at it and maybe changes the foam pad in the bottom as they usually fall apart.
From your engine number comparing it to my own personal records I keep(so from my own observation)it is a original engine for that model from 1972.
I am curious now if anybody has some information on this model,like a spare parts listing as my one is from 1978.That seems like a very long run for this model.
I hope this has been of some help.

Here for a good time,not a long time.